Erythromycin eye ointment is a commonly prescribed antibiotic medication. It works by inhibiting bacterial growth, making it an effective treatment for bacterial eye infections. This ointment is not effective against infections caused by viruses or fungi. It is available by prescription.
Common Uses for Erythromycin Eye Ointment
Erythromycin eye ointment is frequently prescribed for bacterial conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye. This infection affects the conjunctiva, a thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. The ointment works by preventing bacteria from producing proteins essential for their growth and reproduction, allowing the body’s immune system to clear the infection.
Erythromycin eye ointment is also used in newborns to prevent ophthalmia neonatorum, a type of conjunctivitis that can occur shortly after birth. This condition can be caused by bacteria like Neisseria gonorrhoeae (gonorrhea) or Chlamydia trachomatis (chlamydia) passed from the mother during vaginal delivery. If left untreated, gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum carries a high risk of corneal damage and blindness. Administering this ointment to newborns within 24 hours of birth helps prevent these serious eye infections.
Applying Erythromycin Eye Ointment
Proper application of erythromycin eye ointment is important for its effectiveness and to prevent contamination. Begin by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water before touching the tube or your eye. To prepare for application, gently tilt your head back and use one finger to pull down your lower eyelid, creating a small pouch between your eyelid and eyeball.
Carefully squeeze a thin strip of ointment, approximately 1 centimeter (or about 1/3 to 1/2 inch) in length, into this pouch. Avoid touching the tip of the ointment tube to your eye, eyelashes, or any other surface to prevent contamination of the medication. After applying the ointment, gently close your eye for one to two minutes, allowing the medication to spread and absorb across the eye’s surface. You may blink slowly a few times to help distribute the ointment, and then use a clean tissue to wipe away any excess from your eyelid or lashes.
Important Considerations for Erythromycin Eye Ointment
Erythromycin eye ointment should only be used as directed by a healthcare professional, as it is a prescription medication. It is important to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully cleared and prevent antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Stopping treatment prematurely can lead to a return of the infection.
While generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience mild side effects like temporary blurred vision, eye irritation, stinging, burning, or redness. These effects are usually temporary. Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen, or if you experience new or severe eye pain, increased redness, discharge, or vision changes. Rare allergic reactions, such as skin rash, itching, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, require immediate medical attention.
The ointment should be stored at room temperature, typically between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F), and should not be frozen. Always keep the medication out of reach of children and avoid sharing it with others.